Xenoblade Chronicles Released in North America

Open-world adventure puts players on the front lines of the ultimate battle between man and machine

Already available in Japan and Europe, Xenoblade Chronicles is now available in North America exclusively for Wii, Nintendo announced. Set on the bodies of two huge titans, Xenoblade Chronicles asks players to wield the Monado blade to save the world from destruction. With ordinary weapons having no effect on the machine race known as the Mechon, the power of the Monado blade is the only hope. The hero, Shulk, uses it to fight the Mechon and see glimpses of the future. Players control Shulk as they engage monsters in battle and go on quests. Players can also upgrade their equipment and abilities in a variety of ways. Weapons, headgear, body armor, gloves and boots can all be modified, with each change affecting both the ability and the look of the character. The same piece of gear even takes on a different appearance depending on which character is wearing that piece. Players can also enhance the abilities of their existing equipment by using Gems, special augmentations created by collecting resources in game. Gems may improve Arts ability, increase agility or add strength.Xenoblade Chronicles also features a unique relationship-building element called the Affinity System that encourages players to build rapport with other characters in the game. Doing so will unlock cut scenes that provide new information and backstory.